How to Safely Hang Holiday Lights

One of our favorite parts of the holiday season is the bright, creative light displays that Ottawa homeowners create. It really helps to get into the spirit of the season with a fun lighting display, no matter how simple or elaborate. 

If you’re thinking of putting up holiday lights this year, or trying something new, here are our top tips for how to safely create an outdoor lighting display. 

Check the outdoor rating

Not all lights and extension cords are rated for outdoor use. Since outdoor holiday lights are likely to come in contact with moisture in the form of snow or rain, it’s extremely important to use lights that can handle the elements. 

Before hanging any lights, check the cord or tag for a label from Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a global safety consulting and certification company. It will let you know whether the product is certified safe for outdoor use. 

If you find that your lights aren’t rated for outdoor use, you can still make a fantastic lighting display by placing them around the insides of your window frames. 

Replace burnt out bulbs

Plug in your lights before you hang them. That way if you find burnt out bulbs, it will be easier (and safer) to change them for new ones. No one wants to change a tiny lightbulb on a ladder in the bitter cold! 

Use a sturdy ladder

Speaking of ladders, make sure to use one that can hold your weight and remain stable on the ground. It helps to work with a partner who can keep the ladder steady and pass equipment up to the person atop the ladder. Consider buddying up with a neighbor or friend to help each other with your holiday lighting displays. 

The right mount matters

If you’re hanging your lights on a structure such as a house, garage, or balcony rail, using the right mounting system can improve the safety of your lighting display. Most hardware stores sell hooks designed for the purpose of keeping lights in place. You can also use a staple gun to pin down a string of lights. If you’re renting, try using electrical tape to hold lights in place. 

Use Pre-Lit Figures

If you don’t like the idea of climbing a ladder, installing hooks, and hanging/removing lights from around your eaves, consider pre-lit figures instead. Whether handmade or store-bought, these figures make wonderful lighting displays when placed on a lawn. Common figures include snowmen, deer, snowflakes, bells, and more. They’re often easier to set up and take down than other types of holiday lights, which makes them a great option for many homeowners. 

No matter what you celebrate, we hope you enjoy the beauty of the season and the fun of holiday lights. Stay safe out there!